South African Airways has officially launched a direct flight route between Cape Town and Mauritius.
Tobias Reich/Unsplash
The inaugural flight departed on 9 December 2025 at full capacity, signalling strong interest from both leisure and business travellers.
Direct access to the Indian Ocean
The new service operates three times a week throughout the year, offering travellers a convenient non stop alternative between the Western Cape and the Indian Ocean island destination. Flights depart Cape Town International Airport every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with return services from Mauritius operating the same days.
Morning departures from Cape Town allow passengers to arrive in Mauritius in the late afternoon, while evening return flights ensure smooth onward connections back into South Africa.
Seasonal schedule adjustments
To align capacity with demand, SAA has confirmed that the route will temporarily operate twice weekly between mid January and mid March 2026. This adjustment reflects seasonal travel trends while maintaining consistent access between the two destinations.
The airline worked closely with tour operators and tourism partners to design a schedule that supports holiday travel, packaged tours and independent bookings.
Supporting regional tourism growth
According to SAA, the Cape Town to Mauritius route forms part of a broader strategy to expand its regional network and reconnect key leisure markets. Mauritius remains one of the most popular island destinations for South African travellers, while Cape Town continues to attract visitors from across the Indian Ocean region.
Improved air access is expected to support tourism growth, strengthen trade links and contribute to wider economic recovery within the Southern African Development Community.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: Stargazing in the Free State: Bloemfontein’s rise as an astro-tourism destination
